Bangkok Moments

Arriving in Bangkok can be a little intimidating. It's a BIG city, accompanied by all the hustle and bustle one would expect of such a place. After a 21-hour flight, a surreal eight-hour layover in one of Moscow's three airports, lackluster food and, of course, little sleep, it was inspiring to find small touches of beauty amidst the chaos of city streets. The first being the beautiful welcome greeting referred to as the Wai, which has its origins in the Indian Namaste - in Hinduism Namaste means "I bow to the divine in you."
                                   
The King of Thailand is constitutionally stipulated to be Buddhist, and Buddhism has been established in Thailand for centuries. Our first day was spent visiting several well known temples including Wat Pho, also known as the Temple of the Reclining Buddha. The gold Buddha statue is so large, it's difficult to take a photo that does it justice. I think this one captures the serenity of his face.

Temples and shrines are busy places, but people find quiet moments for prayer and contemplation...

.... even the smallest among us have time for reflection.

Photo by Ruby

All the things they say about Bangkok being a wild and crazy city are true....but I will add that the people have been lovely... friendly, kind and welcoming. This is a city to visit, to discover and enjoy.

We will have a link to Ruby's Flicker album 'Pursuit of the Golden Lily Journey' very soon. Stay tuned!!